Veneers cover several aesthetic flaws using a single procedure to create a picture-perfect smile. They can correct stains, chips, and gaps using a solution that can thrive for years; however, veneers won’t last forever. You won’t have to worry about replacing veneers often, but here are 4 signs that it’s time to contact your cosmetic dentist.
1. The Veneer is Darkening
Veneers are made of porcelain, which means they’ll stay bright and beautiful for years with the right maintenance. However, as time passes, the cement holding your veneers to your teeth can darken and be visible through the restorations.
2. Your Veneers are Stained
Porcelain is stain-resistant, but veneers can look discolored if the coating on their surfaces is damaged. Your veneers can be vulnerable to stains, which can be bad news for your smile if you drink a lot of coffee.
3. Roughness Around the Edges
The foods you eat and your oral habits can cause small chips that can make your veneers feel rough around the edges.
4. Chips or Cracks
Although veneers are thinner than ever, they are durable. However, they aren’t indestructible. They can chip or crack over time from wear and tear, trauma, or other issues.
Get the Most From Your Investment
The average lifespan of a veneer is about 5 to 10 years, but every situation differs. Veneers can last for a decade or longer by following 6 aftercare tips:
- Choose the Right Dental Products: Only use gentle dental products to avoid scratching the surfaces of your veneers. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to prevent stripping the protective coating off their surfaces.
- Commit to Your Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice daily and use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth.
- Break Bad Oral Habits: Avoid using your teeth in place of scissors or to open bottle caps. Your cosmetic dentist will recommend breaking any other bad habits, like chewing on pens or pencils.
- Watch What You Eat: Eat a balanced diet that’s limited in sugars and starches to prevent decay underneath the veneers. It’s best to moderate how often you have hard or sticky foods.
- Wear a Mouthguard: Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports or a nightguard if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth.
- Visit Your Dentist: Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Besides keeping your teeth and gums healthy, they’ll check your veneers at each appointment to ensure they don’t need replacing.
Veneer replacement is unavoidable, but you can prolong the lifespan of your smile with a few simple changes. If you have any signs of veneer failure, contact your dentist to restore your stunning smile.
About Dr. Stephanie Gorczyca
Dr. Gorczyca earned her dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry and continued her education in advanced services, like cosmetic and general dentistry. She uses the latest innovations in dentistry to create healthy, attractive smiles. Contact our office today if it’s time to replace your veneers.